The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON)
The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) is set to showcase the talents of ten players currently affiliated with top clubs from the USA’s National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and England’s Women’s Super League (WSL), following the recent signing of Nigerian goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie to Brighton & Hove Albion. Eight players hail from the NWSL while two represent the WSL, with talents from Nigeria, Zambia, and Ghana featured prominently in the tournament scheduled from July 5 to 26 in Morocco. Among them, Zambia’s Barbra Banda and Racheal Kundananji are poised to make significant impacts for the Copper Queens as they aim for the finals.
Key Players to Watch
Leading the conversation is Asisat Oshoala, an international star recognized for her exceptional career, including six Africa Women’s Footballer of the Year titles and recent achievements at Bay FC. Although her status is somewhat overshadowed against a backdrop of emerging stars, her experience could be pivotal as she seeks a fourth WAFCON title, adding momentum to her performance.
Zambia’s Barbra Banda, who plays for the Orlando Pride, burst onto the international scene with her remarkable back-to-back hat-tricks during the Tokyo Olympics and is now set to be a key figure in the tournament. Following a controversial exclusion from the last WAFCON due to compliance concerns related to testosterone requirements, her presence in the current squad enhances Zambia’s competitive edge considerably.
Racheal Kundananji, also from Zambia and now with Bay FC, enjoyed a major transfer last February, becoming one of the highest-valued players in women’s football. Known for her tactical versatility, Kundananji is a reliable scorer and has the potential to elevate her team’s performance in high-stakes moments.
Chiamaka Nnadozie’s recent move to Brighton marks the conclusion of much speculation about her future following her commendable role in Paris FC. She is noted for her significant contributions, including crucial saves in high-pressure situations, such as in UEFA Women’s Champions League matches.
Other notable players include Toni Payne from Nigeria, who has demonstrated her ability to create scoring opportunities as Everton’s midfielder, and Michelle Alozie, whose versatility on the field can be a real asset to her team. Grace Chanda and Prisca Chilufya, both from Zambia and signed with the Orlando Pride, are also players to watch after showing promise and strength in their respective roles.
Emerging Talents
Lastly, Ghanaian prospects, Stella Nyamekye and Princess Marfo, represent the next generation of talent, both aiming to make a name for themselves on this prestigious stage. Nyamekye, the youngest in the squad, and Marfo, with her burgeoning reputation, are part of a youthful Ghana side with high aspirations.
As the tournament unfolds, fans will have the chance to witness a blend of established international stars and emerging talents, as these players aim to leave their mark on the WAFCON.
